I typically never think of myself as a last-minute planner, particularly when it comes to traveling, but last week, the starts aligned and I was able to sneak away to Charleston for a couple of days! Charleston has long been on my bucket list so I am so glad I was finally able to see it, and let me tell you, it did not disappoint. This little town comes straight out of a storybook, and some of it felt too perfect and beautiful to even be real. Keep on reading for my personal take on where to eat, shop and stay in Charleston, and get ready for all the Charleston content this week, since I have so much more to share!

Where to Eat

Aside from all of the gorgeous architecture, Charleston is filled to the brim with incredible food. Even the locals I talked to mentioned the need for a decent amount of restraint since there’s so much good food everywhere. Harken Cafe, nestled on quiet Queen Street, is an absolute must - I stopped in early to make sure I could try one of their famous biscuits and I’m still dreaming about it days later. Basic Kitchen is a wonderful spot for lunch, it’s bright and airy and charming and had so many healthy options for food - I had the fish tacos and the beet dip - it was surprisingly delicious. For dinner, oysters were a priority so 167 Raw was my first choice. With a second location in the Hamptons, this oyster bar did not disappoint. The oysters were delicious, but it was the crab panzanella that left me wanting more! Leon’s is a great casual lunch option - their Grilled Oysters were so delicious, and the fried chicken sandwich was pretty much perfect! Brasserie la Banque was a truly charming french outpost at the edge of the French Quarter, and perfect for a special occasion. Make sure to sit somewhere with a view of the bar - it’s seriously stunning. Of course, I had to make an obligatory stop at Sugar Bakeshop, and I’m pleased to say, the cupcakes are as good as the outside is pretty.

More options I didn’t have time for, but would have loved to try: Sorelle, Melfi’s, 82 Queen, Le Farfalle

Where to Stay

Hotel Emeline (which I later learned, is a sister hotel to The Adolphus here in Dallas, my favorite hotel here!) was truly a perfect pick for a quick 3 night stay. Located right next to the famed Market Street, it was a perfect location for walking to the everywhere - the French Quarter, King Street, the Battery and all of the restaurants in the area. I loved the decor and design of the hotel, with its vintage charms but modern and updated feel. Above is a view of the lobby, but the entire hotel was beautiful. The rooms are darker and moody, which I secretly loved - almost like being an a speakeasy. Emeline has a great restaurant - Frannie and the Fox, and while I didn’t get a chance to enjoy the entrees, I can say for certain that the drinks and desserts are worth a visit. Their in-hotel coffee shop, Clerk’s, sported the most delicious Caramel Latte I’ve ever had, and started my following two mornings off there as well.

Some more options I would recommend: The Loutrel is steps from some of the most beautiful streets in the French Quarter and looks absolutely stunning and is outfitted with the very finest accoutrements. Zero George, somewhat removed from the hustle and bustle of the downtown area, is gorgeous and would be perfect for a romantic getaway.

Where to Shop

Charleston’s famed King Street sported some incredible one-of-a-kind shops. I felt silly (but happily surprised) to realize that Lake Pajamas, my absolute favorite resource for pajamas and loungewear, had a shop right on King Street. Etu Home, and incredible home shop known for its cutting boards, was just down the street. For those of you who love antique shops - let me let you in on the secret that is Alexandra AD. It was an antiquarian’s dream come true - I wish I could have taken home every piece. I also loved stopping in Hampden, Grit & Grace, Beau & Ro, 120 % Lino, and Madison Matthews.

Stay tuned for more on my trip this week- I have lots more to share!